Balsamic Cipolline Onions
Elevate your next meal with the rich, sweet-savory sophistication of Balsamic Cipolline Onions. This simple yet elegant side dish features tender cipolline onions, caramelized to golden perfection, then braised in a glossy balsamic glaze infused with brown sugar, garlic, and fresh thyme. The balance of tangy vinegar and subtle sweetness transforms these humble pearl-like onions into a show-stopping accompaniment, perfect for pairing with roasted meats, creamy mashed potatoes, or crusty artisan bread. Ready in under an hour, this dish combines minimal effort with maximum flavor, making it a must-try for any culinary enthusiast.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 500 grams cipolline onions
- 120 ml balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic cloves
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme sprigs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 120 ml water
Instructions
Peel the cipolline onions by blanching them first. Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the onions, and boil for 1-2 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Trim the root ends and slip off the skins.
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat until the butter melts and starts to bubble.
Add the peeled cipolline onions to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized on most sides.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring until fragrant.
Sprinkle the brown sugar over the onions and stir to coat them evenly.
Pour in the balsamic vinegar and water, and then add the fresh thyme sprigs, salt, and black pepper.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a lid and let the onions braise for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove the lid and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the balsamic sauce to reduce and thicken slightly.
Discard the thyme sprigs and taste to adjust seasoning, if necessary.
Serve warm as a side dish or spooned over roasted meat, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
846 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 52.5 g | 67% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.5 g | 92% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 62 mg | 21% | |
| Sodium | 2426 mg | 105% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 88.2 g | 32% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.3 g | 33% | |
| Total Sugars | 56.9 g | ||
| Protein | 7.3 g | 15% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 224 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 3.6 mg | 20% | |
| Potassium | 1088 mg | 23% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
